My Hands Are Empty But They're Open

To the crash and burn, the bait and switch, the hope denied.

The starless winter sky, a black abyss above me.

The promise and the lie, you make them both so lovely.

Quiet desperation, a tempest on the inside.

Hanging on a heartbeat, watch the cable car unwind.

 

Headlights on the water, ignite my expectations.

With each grateful shudder, embracing the elation.

Every height has its fall, every dream its requiem.

Beneath these hallowed halls, we each hide a mausoleum.

 

A shallow masquerade, or a misbegotten chance?

Or intervening fate I wasn't meant to understand?

Should hope elude me thus, I will deign to carry on.

Should my will of iron rust, I shall breathe in new resolve.

 

My breaking heart will not stay broken.

My hands are empty but they're open.

Author's Note

Still raw from the emotion... here it all is.

Reviews

[paparapapa]

Just a couple of hands in the last line. Haha. Other than that, this is a very beautiful poem. I particularly loved the optimism it holds. Oh, and brilliant choice of words. They add to the depth of the message. Favorite lines...

"Should hope elude me thus, I will deign to carry on.
Should my will of iron rust, I shall breathe in new resolve."

This can really strengthen a weak soul. Thanks for sharing.

[Lina Grey]

Wow I love this poem. The deep meaning, abstract language, and heavy feeling combine for a really strong write. Thank you.

[Irfan Bashir Shah]

I like this poem!
The 3rd stanza especially.
Keep going!

[Mary C]

The sheer style of this leaves me breathless - - Brilliant work